Prompt Action Reassures Wincanton Community

Community Safety issues such as anti-social behaviour, vandalism, criminal damage and speeding continue to be a concern for local communities. The Area East Community Safety Action Panel met on the 8th of November as part of their programme to identify and prioritise these local community safety issues and work with the affected communities to resolve them.

The Panel is made up of agencies which work in Area East of South Somerset District Council and have an interest in tackling community safety issues within that area. These include South Somerset District Council, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, Police, Youth and Community Teams, Yarlington Housing Group, town and parish councils and other voluntary organisations.

At this meeting, concerns were raised by County and Town Councillors around increased reported levels of crime and anti-social behaviour in Wincanton, particularly around the New Barns estate.

As a response to this situation, the Panel adopted a strategy to tackle the specific issues and reassure the community. The Police increased patrols and Chief Inspector Sean Williams was out on the beat talking to members of the public in Wincanton. The Police's Safer Neighbourhood Team carried out a survey of residents in New Barns which resulted in the majority stating that they know who their PCSO is, and that they feel safe in their community.

Chief Inspector Sean Williams said, "We examine crime on a daily basis along with partners and respond to trends by altering our tactics to allow us to respond quickly to address community fears".

Councillor Henry Hobhouse, as Chairman for the Area East Community Safety Action Panel, said, "I am really delighted that partners including Jephson Housing and the Police came together quickly to respond to the growing concerns within the community.

"This initiative under the Panel clearly illustrates how successful joint collaboration can be and I would urge all local organisations and others to use this forum to solve situations like this. The attendance of key partners means we will get a complete picture which contributes towards a speedy solution. Finally I would like to reassure the community in the eastern part of the District that partners on the panel are totally committed to making their area a safer place".

If you would like more information on the Area East Community Safety Action Panel or your community needs support in addressing a community safety issue please contact South Somerset District Council's Community Safety Team on or 01935 462462.